I use it on my 10 inch flextube dobsonian, and when it downloads the Alt/AZ coordinates (and elevation over sea-level?) it works like a dream, but when the connection (or I) fails, it moves around in any direction. I was not sure if I should use it with the Celestron SkySync GPS accessory until I watched this tutorial.. I got the SkySync also, but have not figured out how to use it. With the hand controller or the Star-Sense controller ????
Thank you for your outstanding review. Because of your review I just ordered the Sky-Watcher HEQ5i GoTo Equatorial Mount with WiFi. Can't wait to get it going. Thank you
Very useful information (tutorial). Restored my usefulness of my 10 inch flextube... Now I can align the telescope automatically without wondering how to get the exact GPS coordinates from if I move, or turn my telescope off... Wonderful small device..
My apologies for not replying back to you, as work sort of taken over my life at the moment, it's good to hear that the WIFI adapter is working well for the Flextube
I have the AZ-EQ6-GT and it works great, it moves with my head all you do to stop it from hanging is use double sided tape and tack it to head or in your case the plastic case and no hanging, its out of the way and fantastic. Works as you said, amazing.
Super video. Hi do you know if the control box absolutely needs to be earthed to the tripod legs? I am using a pier so not sure where to ground it. Thanks.
Has far as I'm aware, you don't need to, mine operates fine and it's been working for a good 2 years running, and it's fitted on my NEQ-6 permanently in my MP ASTRO Shed.
Hi Martin recently got the adapter to use on the HEQ5 mount. No problem and works great. I am using a small self sticking Velcro patch on the side of the mount and stick the adapter there. Out of the way and not flapping around. Thanks for the review, excellent. Regards Lutz
Here is the reason why the cable is and a direct connect method is not, the wifi module came out after many mounts have been in existence, in order to allow it to work with all and not have to design a special on for older models and have one that will have a direct insert like on a 2021 model lets say, they made it connect via the RJ45, this allows them to make one that will work indefinitely with any currant model and models to come. It is a future proof method. As you have already pointed out many models have the ports located in different places, I have an AZ-EQ6 GT very different from yours my RJ45 connector is in the head that moves as yours is on the leg. Again your model was made before the wifi module existed had they made it to fit into a port like you are wanting, then your model would be excluded from having wifi and you would have to purchase a newer mount with the port for wifi, they way they did it allowed you to use this wonderful adapter without spending big bucks on a new mount just for wifi. What skywatcher did was a very fair and just thing that allowed us all new and old users to enjoy wifi. The thing you call a downside or bug, is actually a labor of love from skywatcher to the customers . Please praise them for that not call it a downside, they actually put planning into that and deserve much praise. They really could have made as you say and left is all having to spend big bucks on new mounts. I am sure in the future the newer mounts will have that built into the internal board itself as I am sure this will be the newer and cheaper way. It costs money to make the hand controllers, it would be more cost effective to give the wifi at no cost and have customers use the existing phones, tablets and laptops we already have, think of the money they will save and make, we pay same price as always for same mount, we think we are getting a deal cause its got free wifi, when in fact they save a bundle on not giving a hand controller worth more than the wifi module. It’s a win win for everyone. Thanks for listening.
Thanks for the response! I always try to give an honest opinion on every manufacturer with a firm but fair attitude and constructive feedback without seriously knocking the product down, if I find that something is needed to be improved, they can gain from our feedback and learn to improve on the product. When this device was first launched, I thought that it was too pricey, and I felt that it could be lowered to be honest!! The outcome has now they have made the product much cheaper, don't get wrong it is damn good device, and I've bought another for my EQ-5 mount. That Synscan app is amazing and very reliable. Skywatcher have got better other years and their technology has greatly improved. Remember I not endorsed or sponsored by Skywatcher, and most viewers like to see honest reviews like this, rather than see bigger UA-cam channels who receive sponsorship and free equipment supplied to them from Manufacturers, than give very biased reviews which and misleading the community with false info. Skywatcher are a damn good Astro manufacturer indeed, and most of my equipment I've bought from them, I agree that they are a Chinese company and they do get a bad press from High end budget customers. But to be honest I've never had any problem with the Skywatcher equipment, I've produced some outstanding images from my scope and mounts, but there at times where the equipment needed to be improved, to make than run better.
I disagree with Polarscope being obsolete, If you have no WIFI, the polarscope is always the back plan to every mount. Too much technology we rely too much on. Simple methods are always the best, sorry but that is my opinion!! Many others will agree too!!
unfornately it's only the mount you can control, I have tried to find the Synscan app manual on the official web site, and it's only the installation described, no instructions on how to use the Synscan App itself, which it's been a year since I've reviewed it, surely Skywatcher should have made a guide on the app itself, I know there is a DSLR function on there, I will contact Skywatcher as I would like to know myself being a DSLR user.
Martin hi, there's an independent app called DSLRController (see dslrcontroller.com) which uses a modified TPLink piece of hardware which connects to the camera to create a local network which allows you to select shutter speed, aperture, number of shots, gap between shots etc. The app allows you to control the camera remotely, so you would probably need a phone to control the mount and a separate device to control the camera.
Matthew Binnie thanks the heads up on that awesome app, I'll look into it, it seems that your right about having a separate device to control the camera, all good tips and advice taken on board, I'll give it a try, maybe launch a video but weather has but a halt on my videos, as I have loads of projects to do but unable due to lack of clear skies. And a lot of these recordings involve the outdoors. Some are product reviews but I always like to test these out in the field so viewers get to see how they perform.
Martin Pyott I've tried the h/w s/w combo indoors, just bought an EQ5 upgrade (goto) so will try and get it all hooked up and tested soon, weather permitting. The most difficult part is hacking the TPLInk h/w but tbh so long as you are patient and careful it's not a real big deal (I'm sure you will be fine), only issue is if you use the wrong method (there are/were 2 based on version of h/w) it wrecks the h/w eprom (I Think) and you'll need a new device!
Thanks for the great video mate , I have an EQ5 pro mount also , how heavy is your Ota setup , I've put on an 8" sct with guidescope and dslr at 7.5kg and tracking is not the best for me .
Thanks for watching, I believe that there is now Synscan app for Windows and MAC IOS formats see website link for details: www.skywatcher.com/download/software/synscan-app/ My set-up is 80mm Lunt F7 Refractor, with a modded Canon 600D with cooling box, and I didn't use a Guiidescope in this video, as wanted to test purely the app itself with all that weight it was around 5.7Kg. Have you got your polarscope aligned properly also if you have clockface variant the FM5 is a much better and more accurate polarscope, in the NEQ-6 Part 6 video, I demonstrated how to adjust it!! ua-cam.com/video/a8mP5sz4bkU/v-deo.html
Hi Martin i got to try a friends one on Saturday night on my HEQ5 and the whole time during the evening i used it i never noticed it getting caught up or interfering with the movement of the mount it was the first time i have used one but i was so impressed i have just ordered my own one so i will see how is goes and message you on how it is but at this stage i have not noticed anything .
Thanks for this walkthrough Martin; it was very helpful. I have one of these on order together with a new HEQ5 mount. I intend to use it via my iPhone. It looks so much more user friendly than that dreaded (and now antiquated) hand controller, particulalry the auto setting of Lat & Long and time etc. My camera also has a wifi facility which allows me to control it remotely, including visual feedback while it's taking the subs. I'm currently using it on the Star Adventurer Pro and an iPad. If this set up allows me to do some imaging from the warm side of the double glazing it will encourage me to do far more imaging in the winter months. Clear Skies.
Hi Martin....got this wifi thingy a couple of weeks ago...from indoors sat at my pc i am able to use my android phone too control the scope on an eq5...but my pc can't find it or connect????? sat in the comfort of my living room and dreading the thought of stargazing outside in winter... is there a wireless camera which will allow me to attach to a guide scope and view on pc....any help much appreciated...Cheers
Thank you for watching my video I appreciate your support. You can with the NEQ-6 with it's R232 cable. With the RJ-45 cable I cannot see why not. Has I know that the cable is not exactly in a great position for the HEQ-5 where the port is so close to RA axis, and the cable could get trapped between movement of the motor drives. So longer twin male RJ-45 is required. For my NEQ-6 I've got a shorter R232 cable to RJ-45 adapter which is a lot shorter has using the existing cable is too long and it catches easily on the tripod and lock down screw of the RA axis. So I ordered this item which I'm still waiting for it to arrive, but again I it's cable and it should work, unless the Synscan WI-FI adapter is wired differently, but I will keep you informed if it doesn't. This is the cable I've ordered for the NEQ-6 mount. www.amazon.co.uk/DealMux-RS232-Connector-Ethernet-Adapter/dp/B072SJZMD8/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1523946683&sr=8-15&keywords=RS232+DB9+Male+Connector+to+RJ45+Ethernet+Adapter+Cable
Received my adapter yesterday and setup wasn't too bad. I set mine up in station mode so I could continue to use the internet with the devices as well. Question: When trying to use the device to do an alignment after polar aligning with Polemaster, the app would not accept the position I had to move the scope to to center the star selected. I read that if the app thinks it isn't the correct star it will not accept the position. This never happens when using the hand controller and I am near certain the correction I made is correct (Vega is very obvious in the sky). Any ideas of what to do to ensure it will accept the corrections? Second question: Is there a way to have EQMOD recognize the connection so a computer can be used to guide using an app like PHD guiding?
Nice walkthrough! I have an old SW EQ6 Heavy Duty mount with a SkyScan handcontrol that plugs into the mount with the rs232 plug. As I have a new SynScan handset I use that instead of the SkyScan, just changing cables. Are You sure the wifi adapter will work on this old mount through the rs232?
Gunder I have fitted the existing cable with the RS232 connection, you can connect WIFI adapter on there and it should work. The only problem is you have to put with that long cable in order for the mount to work with the WIFI. I have cable tied to avoid the mount head getting entangled with the cable itself.
@@MPAstro 1000 thanks to You for such a quick answer on your post. Was worried that the RS232 that connects my HC to the mount did not deliver power to the wifi adapter, if it does it won't be a problem. Again, thanks for quick response, as I'm a novice that just started up :)
Just got my dongle and it worked right away, however it seems to freeze up once in a while, and my iPhone kicks out the adapter wifi and connects to the "house wifi". Anyone having the same experience?
Hi Martin, Great video mate as always. Very informative and helpful with plenty of enthusiasm too. I have ordered my adapter and it should be here soon. Can't wait to use it. When you get the time, Can you please make a video on how to use and setup the wifi adapter with a laptop. I can fully see how to use it with a phone or tablet but not quite sure how it would connect with a laptop. I'm sure myself and many others would really appreciate a video about this. Many thanks again for another great video and please keep up the good work. Best wishes and a merry Xmas to you. Cheers, Ray. P.S. I live in Tenerife and I get some really great clear skies and plenty of great weather here pretty much all year round. Cheers.
Great review thank you Martin. I have the same adapter and it works fine on a Star Discovery Mount and also my AZ-EQ6 I made a short video showing how to set it up via Sky Safari Pro on an iPad. I'll post it as a seperate link in case it gets blocked in the spam folder.
Thanks Wolfie6020 That's brilliant, The SkySafari app will work wonders with the Wi-Fi adapter, I'll definitely use it, being a Stellarium user for many years.
If you considering using the EQ mount for Astrophotography then a big YES!! But if you just want it for visual use than no. Remember if you want accurate tracking than Polar alignment is crucial, and general use for GOTO then star alignment through the Synscan App is used. I have made a video where you can adjust the Polar scope, please check this video out, it may help out: ua-cam.com/video/a8mP5sz4bkU/v-deo.html
Yes, there Star Adventurer WIFI mount is the one that already has the Synscan WIFI adapter built in, the Standard Star Adventure doesn't have the connection for the WI-FI adapter to be connected and so this product cannot be used in conjunction with the standard Star Adventurers I'm afraid.
Thanks for the great video - and your great videos. Have you noticed that gotos with the wifi adapter and the app are more accurate? You seemed surprised in the video when you hit on Mizar in your camera's field. I just used this adapter for the first time tonight and my gotos were significantly more accurate than with either the hand controller or Starsense for Skywatcher. I'm just wondering whether it was a fluke or if this is something I can come to expect.
It's defo no fluke mate!! I've used it on several occasions now, and every time the Synscan App has worked at tip top performance. No dramas what so ever, just make sure you're phone is near the mount within 10m otherwise you'll lose the WI-FI signal and the adapter will shut down or freeze up, which then the mount will stop tracking.
The mistakes I made, using this device was not turning on the location downloader from the phone, and turning on the - reconnect- option on the phone, and plugging it into the SkySync GPS device. (no connection as a result). I always lost connection during sessions.. with other wifi devices close by..
You can lose connection easily if you over 10m away for the adapter, hence why I have my mobile phone close by, and yes avoid other WIFI connections, my phone gives me the option to stick to the wifi or roam for nearby devices, I always switch off the roam feature.
Hi Martin. Very good and informative video. Looks like a great device. I have a Skywatcher goto mount and was thinking of getting a 30-meter cable in order to control the mount from my living room to my back garden. I have a camera connected to the telescope eyepiece which is wireless and transmits to my laptop. Sort of lazy skywatching. LOL The worry I have with this wifi device is the distance it will transmit. Have you tried the distance and penetration through walls etc? Thanks.
To setup the telescope is necessary turning on the EZ Finder? If I want to change that Finder, when I have to do it? Before to turn the Mount on? I appreciate your comment.
Hey Martin I’ve just ordered one and watched your video and find it to be very helpful and will be a big help when it arrives. Question can it be used with SkySafari Pro. Alan
excellent point there Kokoro San, I never knew there was minimum Android version required to run the Synscan app. Thank you for your input in the video!!!
I own an HEQ5-Pro, you're spot-on with that cable *potentially* getting in the way, however, I wouldn't mind using a small piece of velcro attached to the WiFi adaptor and then to the side of the mount head. It then wouldn't get in the way when slewing, otherwise yes I agree it would probably be an issue for me. A side-note, is that Skysafari 5 Pro didn't ever work very well on an iOS device with Skywatcher mounts - I have been invited to beta-test Skysafari 6 for iOS, yet to do that but it would be interesting to see if this WiFi adaptor actually works with Skysafari on iOS with a Skywatcher mount. PS - great vids Martin, I do enjoy your channel. Your video about CCD's was really good mate!
thanks for sharing your experience with the WI-FI fitted to the HEQ-5 mount, I wondered how you guy's coped that mount. After looking closely it would be a big problem for the HEQ-5. I haven't tried the Skysafari app just yet. But the Synscan PRO app seems to the trick for me, and being very easy to operate, it's all I need. Thanks for the kind replies Astro Nomad, the CCD video aim was to keep it simple to beginners, has I noticed that CCD's are very complicated to the new beginner, I had make a video to shed some light and direction to the newbies amongst us!!
Martin Pyott cheers, you should have no problem using Skysafari app with your Samsung smartphone since it will have an Android operating system. Interestingly though, the Skysafari WiFi module (SkyFi) version 2 doesn’t work well with Android! so there is a kind of opposite problem with that! The newer SkyFi WiFi module version 3 does work well with Android, but it’s costs more than 3 times as much as the Skywatcher WiFi module. The Skysafari 6 app promises to solve problems for iOS users, but as mentioned it is in beta-testing so it’s yet to be seen working as it should with iOS devices (Apple). I actually don’t yet own the Skywatcher WiFi module, I was suggesting what might be a simple solution for HEQ5/HEQ5-Pro owners such as myself. I’m planning on getting one though, so I may report back on that! Cheers again.
Seriously recommend that you purchase the Skywatcher WiFi adapter without a doubt. I taken the plunge and so I am so glad I did it in the end!!! Been a keen Synscan handset user for many years, this time the handset is going in the bin!! WiFi has changed my mounts to into a new level of performance!!
+Astro Nomad - I have the same adapter and it works very well with Sky Safari Pro. You need to configure it to talk to the device running the Synscan app.
At the moment I'm trying to find out the way to do it myself, Since I didn't use any guiding methods in the video, I did highlight as an improvement at the end of the video, Hopefully Sky watcher notices my request for a guiding app to be intergrated into the Synscan PRO app. It would make sense since we Astrophotographers do a lot of long exposure with autoguiding. At the moment the standalone Synguider works with conjunction with Synscan WI-FI adapter with ease. Not sure about PHD2 but I'm waiting for a clear night to confirm this. My apologies if this doesn't answer question Stefan Grecu
Thanks for video. I have a question. Did anyone who will be read this know how to setup the wifi adapter to the laptop? Please let me know. I;m looking for that information everywhere :D
Believe it or not I have been trialling this one for a while, at the moment Synscan App for Windows does work, but there are firmware glitches on it which makes it unusable to operate the goto. There is another update this month hopefully I just need some good skies to test it out again!! Having said this the App works superbly with Android/IOS format devices, it works 100% and never missed a beat, as long you keep the mobile devices within 10m of the Synscan dongle you have nothing to worry about!!
@@MPAstro I tried a dummy run and using skysafari adds much more, once you done alighment can click on the object in skysafari abd will go to it, or search anything in its data base. Using skysafari is so much more powerful than just the app. Although you do need the app in the background when running skysafari. Its not as straight forward as my Evolution 9.25 mount though as I can run star portal or skysafari and do alignment from there, dont need another app in the background. But using skysafari does make the wifi dongle much more powerful
Did I hear you say it was only for Android? So no IOS or mac? All I have are Apple products and all I ever see (unless paying significant cash) are software for windows (Live Capture stuff and now this). I've spent so much money (for me at least) for equipment (and still have to buy more) that this hobby - which I've been into since a kid - is just draining me.
The wifi adapter is pitiful compared to celestron, which uses starportal and built in planetrium program also, so a version of sky safari. Think celestron is better, better hc and software, but skywatcher az-eq6 pro better than CGX mount. So celestron far better software and setup, skywatcher az eq6 pro better as it has sensors so don't lose alighment so can manually switch to objects and will not lose alighments.
Never had any dramas, as long you keep within 20m distance away, you should not lose a signal. Celestron is the same technology as Skywatcher, what's better???
Excellent overview! (Only one minor comment, it's pronounced "PLEE-uh-deez" not "plee-YA-deez".) Thanks for the review! Going to pick up one of this little gems asap. :)
I noticed this issue before I thought it was my phone at first, But the Synscan App did freeze, which stopped all my tracking while I was imaging long hours there might be a slight bug on the app itself. It seems to freeze at around 45 minutes of not pressing any buttons on the app. So I have to move a few tabs just to keep the app going. The App bug needs to be addressed to Skywatcher. At the moment I'm running Synscan PRO app version 1.8.0. I've noticed there is another new version of it, maybe uninstall your existing app, and upload the newer version. 1.8.8. Please check this link Andrew. skywatcher.com/download/software/synscan-app/ I'm doing the same myself, it's annoying and I can see your frustrated with it. I hope this helps you?? I believe that it's more of a Apps issue here?? The WI-FI adapter it self is not at fault, end of the day it's just a receiver, has long has it's working it's fine. The app will be main bug bear of this freezing problem. I will report the problem to Sky watcher, They will not respond if people do not report the problem, Manufacturers need customer feed back so that they can rectify the problem and so they can improve and solve these app issues immediately.
I use it on my 10 inch flextube dobsonian, and when it downloads the Alt/AZ coordinates (and elevation over sea-level?) it works like a dream, but when the connection (or I) fails, it moves around in any direction. I was not sure if I should use it with the Celestron SkySync GPS accessory until I watched this tutorial.. I got the SkySync also, but have not figured out how to use it. With the hand controller or the Star-Sense controller ????
Personally I would stick to the standard Skywatcher APP for this device has it seems to be more stable.
Thank you for your outstanding review. Because of your review I just ordered the Sky-Watcher HEQ5i GoTo Equatorial Mount with WiFi. Can't wait to get it going. Thank you
Good choice!
Very useful information (tutorial). Restored my usefulness of my 10 inch flextube... Now I can align the telescope automatically without wondering how to get the exact GPS coordinates from if I move, or turn my telescope off... Wonderful small device..
My apologies for not replying back to you, as work sort of taken over my life at the moment, it's good to hear that the WIFI adapter is working well for the Flextube
I have the AZ-EQ6-GT and it works great, it moves with my head all you do to stop it from hanging is use double sided tape and tack it to head or in your case the plastic case and no hanging, its out of the way and fantastic. Works as you said, amazing.
Great tip!
Thanks Martin for a brilliant tutorial. Helped me a lot and saved me a lot of time.
Super video. Hi do you know if the control box absolutely needs to be earthed to the tripod legs? I am using a pier so not sure where to ground it. Thanks.
Has far as I'm aware, you don't need to, mine operates fine and it's been working for a good 2 years running, and it's fitted on my NEQ-6 permanently in my MP ASTRO Shed.
Thanks for this excellent review and detailed guide. Great work 👍
My pleasure!
Hi Martin recently got the adapter to use on the HEQ5 mount. No problem and works great. I am using a small self sticking Velcro patch on the side of the mount and stick the adapter there. Out of the way and not flapping around. Thanks for the review, excellent. Regards
Lutz
Thanks for all your time and work on your videos....love them and your enthusiasm. Cheers from Canada.
Great video Martin, it looks like a brilliant way of removing a cable. Good work! Graham
Thanks Graham I've subscribed onto your neat Channel mate.
Here is the reason why the cable is and a direct connect method is not, the wifi module came out after many mounts have been in existence, in order to allow it to work with all and not have to design a special on for older models and have one that will have a direct insert like on a 2021 model lets say, they made it connect via the RJ45, this allows them to make one that will work indefinitely with any currant model and models to come. It is a future proof method. As you have already pointed out many models have the ports located in different places, I have an AZ-EQ6 GT very different from yours my RJ45 connector is in the head that moves as yours is on the leg. Again your model was made before the wifi module existed had they made it to fit into a port like you are wanting, then your model would be excluded from having wifi and you would have to purchase a newer mount with the port for wifi, they way they did it allowed you to use this wonderful adapter without spending big bucks on a new mount just for wifi. What skywatcher did was a very fair and just thing that allowed us all new and old users to enjoy wifi. The thing you call a downside or bug, is actually a labor of love from skywatcher to the customers . Please praise them for that not call it a downside, they actually put planning into that and deserve much praise. They really could have made as you say and left is all having to spend big bucks on new mounts. I am sure in the future the newer mounts will have that built into the internal board itself as I am sure this will be the newer and cheaper way. It costs money to make the hand controllers, it would be more cost effective to give the wifi at no cost and have customers use the existing phones, tablets and laptops we already have, think of the money they will save and make, we pay same price as always for same mount, we think we are getting a deal cause its got free wifi, when in fact they save a bundle on not giving a hand controller worth more than the wifi module. It’s a win win for everyone. Thanks for listening.
Thanks for the response! I always try to give an honest opinion on every manufacturer with a firm but fair attitude and constructive feedback without seriously knocking the product down, if I find that something is needed to be improved, they can gain from our feedback and learn to improve on the product. When this device was first launched, I thought that it was too pricey, and I felt that it could be lowered to be honest!! The outcome has now they have made the product much cheaper, don't get wrong it is damn good device, and I've bought another for my EQ-5 mount. That Synscan app is amazing and very reliable. Skywatcher have got better other years and their technology has greatly improved. Remember I not endorsed or sponsored by Skywatcher, and most viewers like to see honest reviews like this, rather than see bigger UA-cam channels who receive sponsorship and free equipment supplied to them from Manufacturers, than give very biased reviews which and misleading the community with false info. Skywatcher are a damn good Astro manufacturer indeed, and most of my equipment I've bought from them, I agree that they are a Chinese company and they do get a bad press from High end budget customers. But to be honest I've never had any problem with the Skywatcher equipment, I've produced some outstanding images from my scope and mounts, but there at times where the equipment needed to be improved, to make than run better.
The polarscope is obsolete now that celestron has the all star polar alightment a handy feature for us down in Southern hemisphere.
I disagree with Polarscope being obsolete, If you have no WIFI, the polarscope is always the back plan to every mount. Too much technology we rely too much on. Simple methods are always the best, sorry but that is my opinion!! Many others will agree too!!
@@MPAstro Try doing it in the Southern Hemisphere, good luck..
You can use DSLR controller software and dlink hardware to remotely controlled canon DSLR through a wi-fi connection.
unfornately it's only the mount you can control, I have tried to find the Synscan app manual on the official web site, and it's only the installation described, no instructions on how to use the Synscan App itself, which it's been a year since I've reviewed it, surely Skywatcher should have made a guide on the app itself, I know there is a DSLR function on there, I will contact Skywatcher as I would like to know myself being a DSLR user.
Martin hi, there's an independent app called DSLRController (see dslrcontroller.com) which uses a modified TPLink piece of hardware which connects to the camera to create a local network which allows you to select shutter speed, aperture, number of shots, gap between shots etc. The app allows you to control the camera remotely, so you would probably need a phone to control the mount and a separate device to control the camera.
Matthew Binnie thanks the heads up on that awesome app, I'll look into it, it seems that your right about having a separate device to control the camera, all good tips and advice taken on board, I'll give it a try, maybe launch a video but weather has but a halt on my videos, as I have loads of projects to do but unable due to lack of clear skies. And a lot of these recordings involve the outdoors. Some are product reviews but I always like to test these out in the field so viewers get to see how they perform.
Martin Pyott
I've tried the h/w s/w combo indoors, just bought an EQ5 upgrade (goto) so will try and get it all hooked up and tested soon, weather permitting. The most difficult part is hacking the TPLInk h/w but tbh so long as you are patient and careful it's not a real big deal (I'm sure you will be fine), only issue is if you use the wrong method (there are/were 2 based on version of h/w) it wrecks the h/w eprom (I Think) and you'll need a new device!
Hi Martin
Great video & product
Keep up great work
Cheers
Thanks for the great video mate , I have an EQ5 pro mount also , how heavy is your Ota setup , I've put on an 8" sct with guidescope and dslr at 7.5kg and tracking is not the best for me .
Thanks for watching, I believe that there is now Synscan app for Windows and MAC IOS formats see website link for details: www.skywatcher.com/download/software/synscan-app/
My set-up is 80mm Lunt F7 Refractor, with a modded Canon 600D with cooling box, and I didn't use a Guiidescope in this video, as wanted to test purely the app itself with all that weight it was around 5.7Kg.
Have you got your polarscope aligned properly also if you have clockface variant the FM5 is a much better and more accurate polarscope, in the NEQ-6 Part 6 video, I demonstrated how to adjust it!! ua-cam.com/video/a8mP5sz4bkU/v-deo.html
Hi Martin i got to try a friends one on Saturday night on my HEQ5 and the whole time during the evening i used it i never noticed it getting caught up or interfering with the movement of the mount it was the first time i have used one but i was so impressed i have just ordered my own one so i will see how is goes and message you on how it is but at this stage i have not noticed anything .
Good luck Matthew, you'll won't be disappointed, I still use mine and my mount has never lost a beat. Please let me know how you get on mate?
You can tie it, as it has a hole were you can tie it
You know what, I never even noticed it to be honest, but a good tip, thank you Dennis
Thorough run through... Thank you!
Thank you for your support, there is more good stuff to come!!
hi can you change the goto speed on this app i know you cant the hand set Cheers Andy
Thanks for this walkthrough Martin; it was very helpful. I have one of these on order together with a new HEQ5 mount. I intend to use it via my iPhone. It looks so much more user friendly than that dreaded (and now antiquated) hand controller, particulalry the auto setting of Lat & Long and time etc. My camera also has a wifi facility which allows me to control it remotely, including visual feedback while it's taking the subs. I'm currently using it on the Star Adventurer Pro and an iPad. If this set up allows me to do some imaging from the warm side of the double glazing it will encourage me to do far more imaging in the winter months. Clear Skies.
Thanks for watching Britain Through My Lens, It really is best upgrade for Skywatcher mount, a bit pricey bit the capabilities you can do is amazing.
Hi Martin....got this wifi thingy a couple of weeks ago...from indoors sat at my pc i am able to use my android phone too control the scope on an eq5...but my pc can't find it or connect????? sat in the comfort of my living room and dreading the thought of stargazing outside in winter... is there a wireless camera which will allow me to attach to a guide scope and view on pc....any help much appreciated...Cheers
Good video Martin. I have an HEQ5, can you use the original handset cable with this adaptor? It could be attached to a tripod leg if you can
Thank you for watching my video I appreciate your support. You can with the NEQ-6 with it's R232 cable. With the RJ-45 cable I cannot see why not. Has I know that the cable is not exactly in a great position for the HEQ-5 where the port is so close to RA axis, and the cable could get trapped between movement of the motor drives. So longer twin male RJ-45 is required. For my NEQ-6 I've got a shorter R232 cable to RJ-45 adapter which is a lot shorter has using the existing cable is too long and it catches easily on the tripod and lock down screw of the RA axis. So I ordered this item which I'm still waiting for it to arrive, but again I it's cable and it should work, unless the Synscan WI-FI adapter is wired differently, but I will keep you informed if it doesn't. This is the cable I've ordered for the NEQ-6 mount.
www.amazon.co.uk/DealMux-RS232-Connector-Ethernet-Adapter/dp/B072SJZMD8/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1523946683&sr=8-15&keywords=RS232+DB9+Male+Connector+to+RJ45+Ethernet+Adapter+Cable
Received my adapter yesterday and setup wasn't too bad. I set mine up in station mode so I could continue to use the internet with the devices as well. Question: When trying to use the device to do an alignment after polar aligning with Polemaster, the app would not accept the position I had to move the scope to to center the star selected. I read that if the app thinks it isn't the correct star it will not accept the position. This never happens when using the hand controller and I am near certain the correction I made is correct (Vega is very obvious in the sky). Any ideas of what to do to ensure it will accept the corrections? Second question: Is there a way to have EQMOD recognize the connection so a computer can be used to guide using an app like PHD guiding?
Good explanation, thank you very much 👏🏻
Glad you liked it
Great review, thank you. Tha cable supplied with the unit looks awfully short. Can I use the cable of my HEQ5 hand controller to connect to it?
You convinced me, brotha! I’m going WiFi instead of cables! Nice vid!
Nice walkthrough! I have an old SW EQ6 Heavy Duty mount with a SkyScan handcontrol that plugs into the mount with the rs232 plug. As I have a new SynScan handset I use that instead of the SkyScan, just changing cables.
Are You sure the wifi adapter will work on this old mount through the rs232?
Gunder I have fitted the existing cable with the RS232 connection, you can connect WIFI adapter on there and it should work. The only problem is you have to put with that long cable in order for the mount to work with the WIFI. I have cable tied to avoid the mount head getting entangled with the cable itself.
@@MPAstro 1000 thanks to You for such a quick answer on your post. Was worried that the RS232 that connects my HC to the mount did not deliver power to the wifi adapter, if it does it won't be a problem. Again, thanks for quick response, as I'm a novice that just started up :)
Just got my dongle and it worked right away, however it seems to freeze up once in a while, and my iPhone kicks out the adapter wifi and connects to the "house wifi". Anyone having the same experience?
Looks like I'm going to have to return mine ... Doesn't work on my NEQ6. 😥
Hi Martin, Great video mate as always. Very informative and helpful with plenty of enthusiasm too. I have ordered my adapter and it should be here soon. Can't wait to use it. When you get the time, Can you please make a video on how to use and setup the wifi adapter with a laptop. I can fully see how to use it with a phone or tablet but not quite sure how it would connect with a laptop. I'm sure myself and many others would really appreciate a video about this. Many thanks again for another great video and please keep up the good work. Best wishes and a merry Xmas to you. Cheers, Ray. P.S. I live in Tenerife and I get some really great clear skies and plenty of great weather here pretty much all year round. Cheers.
Great review thank you Martin. I have the same adapter and it works fine on a Star Discovery Mount and also my AZ-EQ6
I made a short video showing how to set it up via Sky Safari Pro on an iPad. I'll post it as a seperate link in case it gets blocked in the spam folder.
ua-cam.com/video/1AKtAHi-BxQ/v-deo.html
Thanks Wolfie6020 That's brilliant, The SkySafari app will work wonders with the Wi-Fi adapter, I'll definitely use it, being a Stellarium user for many years.
With the WiFi adapter do you need to align your polar reticle finder-scope?
If you considering using the EQ mount for Astrophotography then a big YES!! But if you just want it for visual use than no.
Remember if you want accurate tracking than Polar alignment is crucial, and general use for GOTO then star alignment through the Synscan App is used. I have made a video where you can adjust the Polar scope, please check this video out, it may help out:
ua-cam.com/video/a8mP5sz4bkU/v-deo.html
My Orion Sirius EQ-G uses SynScan 4.x Would that WiFi adapter and app work with it?
Star Adventurer is the small mount for small scopes and cameras. Are you referring to this?
Yes, there Star Adventurer WIFI mount is the one that already has the Synscan WIFI adapter built in, the Standard Star Adventure doesn't have the connection for the WI-FI adapter to be connected and so this product cannot be used in conjunction with the standard Star Adventurers I'm afraid.
No it can't. You would need an adapter for the port as well as the code to make it so. It does have a port for auto-guiding though.
Thanks for the great video - and your great videos. Have you noticed that gotos with the wifi adapter and the app are more accurate? You seemed surprised in the video when you hit on Mizar in your camera's field. I just used this adapter for the first time tonight and my gotos were significantly more accurate than with either the hand controller or Starsense for Skywatcher. I'm just wondering whether it was a fluke or if this is something I can come to expect.
It's defo no fluke mate!! I've used it on several occasions now, and every time the Synscan App has worked at tip top performance. No dramas what so ever, just make sure you're phone is near the mount within 10m otherwise you'll lose the WI-FI signal and the adapter will shut down or freeze up, which then the mount will stop tracking.
@@MPAstro Good to know. Thanks again!
Hi, a generic wifi module could work connected to the mount?
Maybe?? You never know, see how you get on??
I know this was 2 years ago but what camera are u using thanks
I was using a Modified Cooling box mod and a Canon 600D
Cheers martin another good review now writing to santa 😁
Great review.
The mistakes I made, using this device was not turning on the location downloader from the phone, and turning on the - reconnect- option on the phone, and plugging it into the SkySync GPS device. (no connection as a result). I always lost connection during sessions.. with other wifi devices close by..
You can lose connection easily if you over 10m away for the adapter, hence why I have my mobile phone close by, and yes avoid other WIFI connections, my phone gives me the option to stick to the wifi or roam for nearby devices, I always switch off the roam feature.
Hi Martin. Very good and informative video.
Looks like a great device. I have a Skywatcher goto mount and was thinking of getting a 30-meter cable in order to control the mount from my living room to my back garden. I have a camera connected to the telescope eyepiece which is wireless and transmits to my laptop.
Sort of lazy skywatching. LOL
The worry I have with this wifi device is the distance it will transmit. Have you tried the distance and penetration through walls etc?
Thanks.
To setup the telescope is necessary turning on the EZ Finder? If I want to change that Finder, when I have to do it? Before to turn the Mount on? I appreciate your comment.
Hey Martin I’ve just ordered one and watched your video and find it to be very helpful and will be a big help when it arrives.
Question can it be used with SkySafari Pro.
Alan
it must have android 7.0 version to make it run the sync apps
excellent point there Kokoro San, I never knew there was minimum Android version required to run the Synscan app. Thank you for your input in the video!!!
I own an HEQ5-Pro, you're spot-on with that cable *potentially* getting in the way, however, I wouldn't mind using a small piece of velcro attached to the WiFi adaptor and then to the side of the mount head. It then wouldn't get in the way when slewing, otherwise yes I agree it would probably be an issue for me.
A side-note, is that Skysafari 5 Pro didn't ever work very well on an iOS device with Skywatcher mounts - I have been invited to beta-test Skysafari 6 for iOS, yet to do that but it would be interesting to see if this WiFi adaptor actually works with Skysafari on iOS with a Skywatcher mount.
PS - great vids Martin, I do enjoy your channel. Your video about CCD's was really good mate!
thanks for sharing your experience with the WI-FI fitted to the HEQ-5 mount, I wondered how you guy's coped that mount. After looking closely it would be a big problem for the HEQ-5. I haven't tried the Skysafari app just yet. But the Synscan PRO app seems to the trick for me, and being very easy to operate, it's all I need. Thanks for the kind replies Astro Nomad, the CCD video aim was to keep it simple to beginners, has I noticed that CCD's are very complicated to the new beginner, I had make a video to shed some light and direction to the newbies amongst us!!
Martin Pyott cheers, you should have no problem using Skysafari app with your Samsung smartphone since it will have an Android operating system.
Interestingly though, the Skysafari WiFi module (SkyFi) version 2 doesn’t work well with Android! so there is a kind of opposite problem with that!
The newer SkyFi WiFi module version 3 does work well with Android, but it’s costs more than 3 times as much as the Skywatcher WiFi module.
The Skysafari 6 app promises to solve problems for iOS users, but as mentioned it is in beta-testing so it’s yet to be seen working as it should with iOS devices (Apple).
I actually don’t yet own the Skywatcher WiFi module, I was suggesting what might be a simple solution for HEQ5/HEQ5-Pro owners such as myself.
I’m planning on getting one though, so I may report back on that!
Cheers again.
Seriously recommend that you purchase the Skywatcher WiFi adapter without a doubt. I taken the plunge and so I am so glad I did it in the end!!! Been a keen Synscan handset user for many years, this time the handset is going in the bin!! WiFi has changed my mounts to into a new level of performance!!
Martin Pyott for £69 you can’t go wrong! It does appear to work really well. Good video again mate. I’ll stay tuned-in ;-)
+Astro Nomad - I have the same adapter and it works very well with Sky Safari Pro. You need to configure it to talk to the device running the Synscan app.
How do you guide the mount? (How we can use PHD2?)
At the moment I'm trying to find out the way to do it myself, Since I didn't use any guiding methods in the video, I did highlight as an improvement at the end of the video, Hopefully Sky watcher notices my request for a guiding app to be intergrated into the Synscan PRO app. It would make sense since we Astrophotographers do a lot of long exposure with autoguiding. At the moment the standalone Synguider works with conjunction with Synscan WI-FI adapter with ease. Not sure about PHD2 but I'm waiting for a clear night to confirm this. My apologies if this doesn't answer question Stefan Grecu
@@MPAstro Hello ;) thank you for that video and Do you connect the synscan app with phd2?
Interesting and informative, however the rambling about how the device is connected is time wasted and detracts from the main thread☺
Thanks for video. I have a question. Did anyone who will be read this know how to setup the wifi adapter to the laptop? Please let me know. I;m looking for that information everywhere :D
Believe it or not I have been trialling this one for a while, at the moment Synscan App for Windows does work, but there are firmware glitches on it which makes it unusable to operate the goto. There is another update this month hopefully I just need some good skies to test it out again!! Having said this the App works superbly with Android/IOS format devices, it works 100% and never missed a beat, as long you keep the mobile devices within 10m of the Synscan dongle you have nothing to worry about!!
Maybe I misunderstand. You took 2 min exposures untracked? How is that possible? Everything made sense until you said that this was untracked.
If your polar aligned you can get really good tracking at even 2 mins exposure time, but it has to perfect alignment.
You have not mentioned you can use skysafari
Sorry never used it, Never needed it!!
@@MPAstro I tried a dummy run and using skysafari adds much more, once you done alighment can click on the object in skysafari abd will go to it, or search anything in its data base. Using skysafari is so much more powerful than just the app. Although you do need the app in the background when running skysafari.
Its not as straight forward as my Evolution 9.25 mount though as I can run star portal or skysafari and do alignment from there, dont need another app in the background.
But using skysafari does make the wifi dongle much more powerful
Did I hear you say it was only for Android? So no IOS or mac? All I have are Apple products and all I ever see (unless paying significant cash) are software for windows (Live Capture stuff and now this). I've spent so much money (for me at least) for equipment (and still have to buy more) that this hobby - which I've been into since a kid - is just draining me.
Sorry Martyn, it does work with iOS. Can it be used on a mac rather than phone while the mac also connects to internet to use other applications?
Great info as usual Martin, but please cut down on the needless and ultra long winded commentary.
The wifi adapter is pitiful compared to celestron, which uses starportal and built in planetrium program also, so a version of sky safari. Think celestron is better, better hc and software, but skywatcher az-eq6 pro better than CGX mount. So celestron far better software and setup, skywatcher az eq6 pro better as it has sensors so don't lose alighment so can manually switch to objects and will not lose alighments.
Never had any dramas, as long you keep within 20m distance away, you should not lose a signal. Celestron is the same technology as Skywatcher, what's better???
Excellent overview! (Only one minor comment, it's pronounced "PLEE-uh-deez" not "plee-YA-deez".) Thanks for the review! Going to pick up one of this little gems asap. :)
Good
nICE
How the hell can you get out of the sleep mode? This is a piece of cheap shite,stay well clear of all skywatcher products.
I noticed this issue before I thought it was my phone at first, But the Synscan App did freeze, which stopped all my tracking while I was imaging long hours there might be a slight bug on the app itself. It seems to freeze at around 45 minutes of not pressing any buttons on the app. So I have to move a few tabs just to keep the app going. The App bug needs to be addressed to Skywatcher. At the moment I'm running Synscan PRO app version 1.8.0. I've noticed there is another new version of it, maybe uninstall your existing app, and upload the newer version. 1.8.8. Please check this link Andrew.
skywatcher.com/download/software/synscan-app/
I'm doing the same myself, it's annoying and I can see your frustrated with it. I hope this helps you??
I believe that it's more of a Apps issue here?? The WI-FI adapter it self is not at fault, end of the day it's just a receiver, has long has it's working it's fine. The app will be main bug bear of this freezing problem.
I will report the problem to Sky watcher, They will not respond if people do not report the problem, Manufacturers need customer feed back so that they can rectify the problem and so they can improve and solve these app issues immediately.